PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Members of the Vancouver Association of Educational Support Professionals (VAESP) on Thursday night voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike if Vancouver Public Schools management and their union’s bargaining team are unable to reach an agreement on a new contract.
VAESP represents more than 800 staff, including paraeducators, clerks, secretaries, tech support specialists and sign language interpreters.
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According to the union, negotiations with the district began in April, and they have been working without a contract since Aug. 31.
They claim key issues that need to be addressed involve management proposals to remove layoff protections, stipends for extra duties, as well as compensation for when an employee is injured by a student.
Additionally, part of the union’s proposals includes adequate pay, staffing, increases to leave for inclement weather and work-related injuries, as well as reduced time before a salary increase.
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“We remain hopeful that we will be able to reach an agreement,” said VAESP President Chipo Sowards. “What’s most important to us is the safety and well-being of our students and school staff and we hope district management will work with us on solutions.”
Mediation will continue between union members and the district, with the next session scheduled for Friday.
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